FOREIGN POLICY
Pezeshkian’s victory lifted hopes of a thaw in Iran’s relations with the West that might create openings for defusing its nuclear dispute with world powers.
The election coincided with escalating regional tension due to the conflicts between Israel and Iranian allies Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, as well as increased Western pressure on Iran over its fast-advancing nuclear programme.
Under Iran’s dual system of clerical and republican rule, the president cannot usher in any major policy shift on Iran’s nuclear programme or support for militia groups across the Middle East, since Khamenei calls all the shots on top state matters.
However, the president can influence the tone of Iran’s policy and he will be closely involved in selecting the successor to Khamenei, now 85.
Backed by Iran’s reformist camp led by former President Mohammad Khatami, Pezeshkian is faithful to Iran’s theocratic rule and has no intention of confronting the powerful security hawks and clerical rulers.
Foreign leaders sent congratulatory messages to Pezeshkian, among them Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
